Micron Technology unleashed today its 256Mb DDR-II memory chips that had passed Intel’s verification at 400 and 533MHz speeds. The devices are projected for relatively cost-effective systems based on DDR-II enabled platform next year. All the leading memory makers said during IDF Fall 2003 in the USA that they would concentrate on 512Mb and 1Gb DDR-II devices due to rising demand for 512 and eventually 1024MB memory modules. Micron is the first company to announce 256Mb DRAMs that will be required mostly for desktops due to higher costs of 1GB and 2GB dual-channel configurations.

Boise, Idaho-based memory maker said its new 256Mb DDR-II devices are produced using 0.11 micron fabrication process.

Intel has validated Micron’s DDR-II components at 400MHz speed on the x4 and x8 configurations and 533MHz speed on the x8 configuration. In 2004, DDR-II 400MHz will be used primarily in server platforms and DDR-II 533MHz will be utilized in desktop applications.

Since 1GB or 2GB dual-channel configurations will cost quite a lot next year, a lot of desktop computers will have to be shipped with 512MB of memory in order to meet generally acceptable price-points. 256Mb DRAMs are preferable for 256MB sticks that will be surely adopted by OEMs targeting mainstream market segments.